Otmar Szafnauer says Alpine has “big potential” in Formula 1 as he gets up to speed in his new role.
Szafnauer spent over a decade at Alpine’s Silverstone-based rivals when it was known as Force India, rising to the role of Team Principal at Racing Point, a position he held through its transition into Aston Martin in 2021.
But Szafnauer left the team at the start of the year and has instead moved across to the Team Principal position at Alpine.
Szafnauer officially began his new role at the start of the month and was in attendance at the three-day Bahrain test.
“First things first, my aim at the moment is to learn as much as I can about the organisation,” said Szafnauer.
“Alpine is a big company under one of the biggest car manufacturers in the world in Renault and the Formula 1 operation is certainly a treasured and seminal part in that.
“I’m going to learn about everything at the F1 team at Enstone, Viry and at the track and gain a good understanding on the roles and processes.
“From what I’ve witnessed over the first couple of weeks, one thing is clear…this team has big potential. I think Alpine is the best place to work in Formula 1.”
Alpine claimed its maiden victory in 2021, courtesy of Esteban Ocon in Hungary, but its overall progress stagnated as it claimed fifth overall for a third successive season.
On Alpine’s ambitions for 2022 Szafnauer said: “We all want to achieve the best possible results and show continuous improvement.
“I want to see every individual giving their best, showcasing their talent and playing their part in making this Formula 1 team become the best it can be.
“We’re all very excited to go racing this weekend and, after that, we will take it a step at a time.”
